The Effectiveness of Cryosurgery Combined with Curettage and Electrodessication in the Treatment of Keratoacanthoma: A Retrospective Analysis of 90 Cases

BACKGROUND: There are several treatment options for keratoacanthoma (KA). However, there are limited data available on the use of cryosurgery. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a combination treatment for KA and to evaluate the cosmetic outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The combination treatment incorporates the use of curettage, electrodessication, and cryotherapy. A retrospective study was conducted on 90 patients with KA who had been treated with this method between 2000 and 2014. The follow-up period lasted 2 years and photographs were available for every visit of the patients to the department. RESULTS: The success rate was found to be 97.8%. No serious adverse events were observed. No infections were reported. The cosmetic outcome was evaluated as excellent for all patients. DISCUSSION: The combination method appears to combine the advantages of both destructive treatment and surgical excision. It appears to be a safe and effective treatment method. However, there are certain limitations to this study. CONCLUSIONS: More studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of this method.